The 23-year-old fell in love with marine life at the New York Aquarium, but with family from Trinidad and Tobago, she also attributes this passion to her family’s frequent trips to the beach. Her "oneness" with the sea spilled into her academic interests.

In May 2016, De Souza received a degree in ocean engineering from the University of Rhode Island, combining her interest in math and science with marine life. She went on to receive the prestigious French Consulate in Boston Excellence Award, which is given every year to a New England college student who has promoted French language and culture. De Souza was the first woman to be selected in the award’s three-year history. Currently she is attending the ENSTA Paristech master’s program in maritime engineering.

Every year The Root selects 25 young people, ages 15 to 22, who excel in science, business, the arts, environmental work and social justice. Here is an update on Arielle De Souza, a 2016 Young Futurist.